Bellerin Is Top Juventus Defensive Target

The 22-year-old Spaniard has been under-fire for inconsistent performances over the past year, including being the target of abuse from Arsenal supporters amid ugly scenes at Selhurst Park in April.

Bellerin recently signed a contract extension keeping him at the Emirates until June 2023, leaving Arsenal in control of the situation. Unless the right-back forces his way out of the Emirates, it’s unlikely the north London club will release him.

Speculation over Bellerin’s future was a theme of the summer with Barcelona letting it be known that wanted the La Masia product to return to Catalunya. Discussions between Bellerin and the club left the youngster with no illusions that Arsenal were not prepared to sell under any circumstances. News of Juventus’ interest is sure to pique Blaugrana interest once again.

The perennial Italian champions are preparing to finish the overhaul of their defence next summer, with Stephan Lichsteiner, 34, set to be sold with one year remaining on his contract. Bellerin is their first-choice replacement.

However, they are also looking at other options including Thomas Meunier, 26, of PSG and Atletico Madrid’s Sime Vrsaljko, 25. Both are unsettled due to a lack of first-team football, at their respective clubs.